CATL and APM Terminals Partner to Accelerate Electrification of Container Terminals

APM Terminals

Strategic Alliance Targets Zero-Emission Port Operations

China’s Contemporary Amperex Technology (CATL) and Netherlands-based APM Terminals have signed a landmark agreement to drive the electrification of container terminal operations. The partnership aims to accelerate the global shift toward battery-electric container handling equipment through the Zero Emission Port Alliance.

Under the agreement, CATL will supply advanced batteries and integrated energy systems for APM Terminals’ electric fleet, including terminal tractors. This collaboration spans the full battery lifecycle, covering design, deployment, after-sales service, and recycling, ensuring a sustainable and circular approach to energy use in ports.

APM Terminals, an independent division of Danish shipping group AP Moller–Maersk, operates in more than 60 countries and is developing several new facilities. Together with Maersk, the company has committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2040, integrating renewable power sources such as solar and wind into port operations.

Driving Efficiency and Sustainability in Global Trade

The electrification initiative also focuses on operational efficiency, with plans to reduce dwell times, optimize energy use, and deploy energy-saving infrastructure. By transitioning to battery-electric handling equipment, APM Terminals can significantly cut its carbon footprint while enhancing operational reliability and lowering long-term energy costs.

As the maritime logistics industry faces increasing regulatory and environmental pressures, this partnership positions both companies at the forefront of port decarbonization. The integration of CATL’s battery technology with APM Terminals’ global operations could serve as a scalable model for ports worldwide seeking to achieve zero-emission targets.

The Metalnomist Commentary

The CATL–APM Terminals partnership signals a pivotal shift toward zero-emission port infrastructure. By combining battery innovation with operational expertise, the initiative could redefine industry standards for sustainable maritime logistics. The success of this collaboration may influence other port operators to accelerate similar decarbonization strategies.